Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4680CAE

Overview

MAX4680CAE from Maxim Integrated is a dual SPST analog switch with two normally closed (NC) channels, designed for precision signal routing in rail-to-rail analog paths. It delivers 1.25Ω max on-resistance, 0.3Ω max R_ON match between channels, and 5nA max off-leakage at +85°C, enabling low-distortion switching in data acquisition and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4680CAE datasheet, MAX4680CAE pinout, MAX4680CAE application, or MAX4680CAE equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed NC configuration, ±4.5V to ±20V dual-supply or +4.5V to +36V single-supply operation, TTL/CMOS-compatible logic inputs via dedicated VL pin, and break-before-make absence (exclusive to MAX4700).

Technical Context

The MAX4680CAE implements CMOS-based transmission-gate architecture with independent control of two NC switches, each featuring matched and flat on-resistance over its full ±10V analog signal range. Its dual-supply topology supports symmetric (±15V) or asymmetric analog rails while maintaining low charge injection (550pC typical) and high off-isolation (–53dB).

Logic-level compatibility is decoupled via VL pin, allowing TTL/CMOS input thresholds (0.8V/2.4V) across the entire analog supply range. Internal ESD protection exceeds 2kV per Method 3015.7, and all analog pins tolerate signals beyond V+/V− rails via integrated clamping diodes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4680CAE is housed in a 16-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.635mm pitch, footprint-compatible with industry-standard SOIC-16 but 30% smaller area. Thermal performance supports 571mW continuous dissipation at +70°C ambient.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual SPST analog switch applications.

Compared with MAX4680CAE, MAX4690CAE provides identical performance in an NO configuration for fail-open systems, while ADG1419BRUZ trades dual-supply versatility and precise logic referencing for simplified supply architecture and slightly relaxed matching.

Availability

MAX4680CAE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for reed relay replacement, data acquisition systems, test equipment signal routing, communication system channel switching, and sample-and-hold circuits requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long-lifecycle programs.

Supply support for MAX4680CAE includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX4680CAE belongs to Maxim's precision analog switch family engineered for low-distortion, rail-to-rail signal routing in automated test equipment and high-fidelity data acquisition systems.

FAQ

What is the default state of the switches in MAX4680CAE?

The MAX4680CAE features two normally closed (NC) analog switches: when the IN1 or IN2 control inputs are logic low (≤0.8V), the respective COM-to-NC path is conductive. At logic high (≥2.4V), the path opens. This fail-safe closed state ensures continuity during power-down or controller reset, making MAX4680CAE ideal for safety-critical signal paths where uninterrupted default conduction is required.

Does MAX4680CAE support dual-supply operation with asymmetric voltages?

Yes, MAX4680CAE operates with dual supplies ranging from ±4.5V to ±20V, including asymmetric configurations such as V+ = +12V and V− = –5V, as long as the absolute difference |V+ − V−| ≤ 44V and each supply remains within its absolute maximum rating. The device maintains specified R_ON, leakage, and switching performance across this full range, enabling flexible biasing in mixed-signal systems.

Can MAX4680CAE handle signals beyond its V+ and V− rails?

MAX4680CAE includes internal ESD clamping diodes on all analog pins (COM, NC, NO). Signals exceeding V+ or falling below V− will be clamped, but forward current must be limited to the device's absolute maximum rating (±200mA continuous). For reliable overvoltage tolerance beyond rails, external series resistors or discrete protection diodes-as shown in Figure 1 of the MAX4680 datasheet-are recommended to prevent damage while preserving MAX4680CAE's low-R_ON performance.

What is the purpose of the VL pin on MAX4680CAE?

The VL pin on MAX4680CAE provides a dedicated logic supply reference, enabling TTL/CMOS-compatible input thresholds (0.8V low, 2.4V high) regardless of analog supply voltage. This decoupling allows MAX4680CAE to interface directly with 3.3V or 5V microcontrollers even when V+ is set to +24V or ±15V-eliminating level shifters, preventing input threshold drift, and ensuring reliable switching timing across wide analog rail variations.

Is MAX4680CAE pin-compatible with MAX4690CAE or MAX4700CAE?

Yes, MAX4680CAE, MAX4690CAE, and MAX4700CAE share identical 16-pin SSOP packaging and pinout. All three devices have the same pin assignments for V+, V−, GND, VL, COM1/COM2, IN1/IN2, and N.C. terminals. The only functional difference lies in switch configuration: MAX4680CAE uses NC, MAX4690CAE uses NO, and MAX46700CAE combines one NC and one NO with guaranteed break-before-make. This allows direct board-level substitution based on signal path safety requirements.